The Scattered Islands & the Seychelles

Discover a PONANT itinerary sailing from Durban, a cosmopolitan city in South Africa, to Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Join us for a 16-day expedition cruise aboard Le Lyrial to experience the exceptional environment of these faraway islands.

From one port of call to the next, enjoy relaxing on idyllic beaches, visiting must-see sites, and meeting the local communities.

Surrender to the unique charm of the Scattered Islands (Europa, Juan de Nova and the Glorioso Islands), tiny specks that are part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF). This beautiful archipelago with very few inhabitants is home to exceptional fauna and flora and boasts the highest concentration of sea turtles in the world.

After an unforgettable call at Nosi Komba (Madagascar), set sail for the Seychelles, a dream destination for fans of lagoons and turquoise water. You will have the chance to discover Assumption Island, Alphonse, La Digue and, more notably, Aldabra, an immense raised coral atoll listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will end your trip to these heavenly lands by visiting Victoria on Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles.

Durban

Durban is a big subtropical city in the north-eastern province of KwaZulu/Natal. It has been a major port since the 1850s and is home to the largest concentration of Indian-descended people in the country – Mohandas Gandhi arrived here as an indentured labourer in 1893. Today the city is better known as a holiday-makers’ fun parlour with a happening nightlife. The weather (and the water, thanks to the Agulhas current) stays warm year-round drawing the crowds to Durban’s long string of surf beaches.

Apart from the sandy strip, ‘Durbs’ has a fair bit to offer. The impressive city hall houses an art gallery which has a good collection of contemporary South African works and a patchy natural science museum (check out the cockcroach display). Also in the city centre, the local history museum has interesting displays on colonial life and the African Art Centre features exciting work by rural artists. The Indian area, to the west of the city centre, has a bustle and vibrancy that’s missing from most commercial districts in South Africa. The Victoria Street Market is the area’s focus, but other must sees are the Juma Mosque, the largest in the southern hemisphere, and the Alayam Hindu Temple, South Africa’s oldest and biggest.

1. The rates of our cruises are per person and include the following: All meals while on board the ship (from dinner on the day of embarkation to breakfast on the day of disembarkation) Captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner Mineral water, tea, filter coffee, a selection of white, red and rosé wines offered during meals; afternoon tea Evening entertainment and events Luggage transfer from pier to the ship and vice versa Room service 24h (special selection) English speaking lecturer on selected sailings. Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite Open Bar (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands…list available upon request).

2. Cruise rates don’t include: Airport taxes (subject to modification) Port and safety taxes, environmental charges, landing and access fees to National Parks, special and/or Protected zones or sites subject to specific permits from National authorities and/or local communities (included only in cruise package sold in US/Canada).

Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned in each “Cruise & Flights” package and for which details are available upon request.

Cancellation/luggage/assistance/repatriation/medical insurance(s) Visa fees, if applicable It is essential not to forget to bring with you your binoculars for a good fauna observation. Please do not forget to bring your medical certificates when it is required to participate in an expedition cruise.

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